What Is Access Control?

Physical access control includes any security mechanisms that business owners use to control who has access to a particular area in a business. Many businesses face the threat of vandalism and theft, and these risks keep rising with time. Business owners have therefore sought ways to keep their property and staff safe by regulating access to company assets.

In this article, we’ll be exploring what access control is and why it’s important.

Types of Access Control

The type of credentials you want play a significant part when planning and budgeting for installing physical access control systems. If you have a tight budget, keycard credentials might be a good option. They, however, have their shortcomings as they easily get lost and thus require regular replacement. For the best protection, it’s good to use two-factor authentication and ensure the keycards you choose are encrypted. These measures reduce the security threat keycards may pose if they get lost and land in the wrong hands.

If your budget allows, you can use a mobile credential, which enables your staff to access your business facilities using their mobile phones. They have built-in biometric multi-factor authentication and are less likely to get misplaced.

You also need to factor in the maintenance and management of the physical access control systems you choose. Most up-to-date systems require on-site servers and sophisticated readers. Any delays in updates of the systems may jeopardise their efficiency, and most outdated readers are easily compromised.

You should consider going for a system that uses modern software for reliable real-time security updates and for you to have remote access to your systems. A system that runs on a cloud-based program is also an added advantage.

Why is Physical Access Control Important for Businesses?

Physical access control is vital for businesses as it helps to protect their assets and customers. The security of access control systems is fundamental to preventing unauthorised access to sensitive areas within the facility.

Only authorised persons can enter certain areas of the facility, including rooms where valuable equipment and records are kept. For example, you may have a door lock with a keypad. When you enter the building, you must use an employee passcode to open the door and get inside. The employee passcode is programmable to accommodate regular changes. This feature ensures that only authorised employees can enter the building and protect against theft of assets.

What are the Benefits of Physical Access Control?

Physical access control has become a vital business security necessity, as clients and staff need to feel safe working with the business. Some of the significant benefits of access control include:

You Can Track Who Enters or Leaves the Premises

The system monitors whoever is in the building at every moment. An adequate system maintains an updated access log, which logs in each person expected onsite and verifies whenever they access the premises.

This constant monitoring reduces the workload on front desk workers. It is also essential in an emergency, as security knows the number of people in an area and where they are at every moment.

Improves Security for Your Staff

With a total capacity to keep intruders out of the building, you can effectively safeguard those inside. This assured safety makes it easy for your staff to maximise productivity and give their all when working, enhancing the realisation of your company goals.

Reduces Theft, Saving You Money

It limits access to only people who’ve been authorised, reducing the chances of intruders getting into the company building. The heightened security measures reduce the chances of data or asset misappropriation.

Moreover, it eliminates the need for a constant key and locks supply and replacement, especially in corporations with multiple buildings and employees, reducing operational costs.

Peace of Mind for Employees

Not only do employees feel safer, but they also have easy access to the resources they need. They don’t need to depend on your security officers to access restricted assets, which boosts their flexibility. It ensures a smooth running of business operations, with minimal delays and exposure to risk, as everyone in the organisation only accesses what they need.

Safeguarding models have advanced with increased criminal tactics. Even with a security front desk, you need to verify a person’s identity to validate who they say they are.

So, there you have it – everything you need to know about what access control is, as well as its importance. Here at Britannia Fire & Security, we provide expert and professional Access Control installation services for commercial premises across the UK. Get in touch with a member of our friendly team today to get a free quote.